Replacement of entire unit of EPIRB is convenient however, this has resulted in an increase of false alerts from 406 Satellite EPIRBs due to factors such as improper disposal, stolen units, unauthorized handling or failure of reprogramming due to change of flag etc.

Following procedure for disposal of EPIRB would eliminate these factors:

If the old EPIRB is handed over to shore personnel, record is to be maintained containing information about personnel and authorized workshop the EPIRB was handed over for proper disposal. The vessel could obtain a certificate from the Shore agency for same. This could be a record onboard and also for the personnel taking over.

If the old EPIRB is to be stored as junk onboard the vessel, then the Master should take the following actions:

Remove the battery from the old unit and have the battery appropriately disposed of as instructed by the maker.

Open the unit and destroy the Main PCB by breaking/cracking the board completely to render it beyond use.

Confirm to the Administrator by email (fsi@mta.gov.ge) that such has occurred, providing the 15-digit Hex ID of the old/destroyed EPIRB along with the serial number of the unit.

In case of false activation, form in accordance COMSAR/Circ.29 dated 27 May 2002 is to be filled and forwarded by email on following address mrcc@mta.gov.ge

All of the above are necessary to avoid false alerts from the vessel/EPIRB, particularly when the vessel is scrapped, resold or if the EPIRB was stolen and the unit falls into unauthorized hands.

Ship Owners/ managers and masters are advised to take note of above and be guided by above.

This Technical Circular and the material contained in it is provided only for the purpose of supplying current information to the reader and not as an advice to be relied upon by any person. While we have taken utmost care to be as factual as possible, readers/ users are advised to verify the exact text and content of the Regulation from the original source/ issuing Authority.